by the University of Michigan Instructional Gaming Group
For 2 players
Ages: 8 to adult

The EQUATIONS Challenge Matches Program allows two or more users to play against each other with the computer coordinating the match as guide, gameboard, coach, referee, and tutor. Challenge Matches reveal the richness of EQUATIONS by showing users how a wide variety of concepts that can be applied in each match.

The program includes a solitaire "Research Mode" that allows a player to investigate the full range of the possible solutions in each match. The player conducts experiments, and by carefully analyzing the results, discovers clues to the identity of the resources used in the remaining unknown solutions. The "Research Mode" is an excellent simulation of scientific method used to deal with an evolving mathematical problem. It inspired the Math/Science Quest for Solutions program - an expanded, online tournament in which teams compete in solving "Research Mode" problems.

The EQUATIONS Challenge Matches Program comes on a single diskette arranged into four groups according to the content explored in the matches. Elementary Matches deal with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers (grades 3 - adults). Intermediate Matches use the arithmetic operations and some exponents with whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals and percents (grades 6 - adults). Advanced Matches explore exponents, roots, and logarithms with whole numbers, integers, fractions and irrational numbers (grades 7 - adults). Multi-Level Matches contain material from all the above levels.

The program is delivered in a DOS version with simple graphics that will run on any Windows-based PC. It is delivered on a single diskette with Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced and Multi-Level Matches.